Trump Administration Investigates Mark Kelly Over Controversial Video

Former NASA astronaut and current U.S. Senator Mark Kelly is facing scrutiny from the Trump administration following his participation in a video that addresses the military’s obligation to disobey illegal orders. Kelly, who has represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate since 2020, is one of six Democratic lawmakers featured in a 90-second clip aimed at reminding military and intelligence personnel of their legal responsibilities.

The video has drawn sharp criticism from former President Donald Trump, who characterized the lawmakers’ actions as treasonous. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, on November 20, 2023, Trump declared, “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!” He further condemned the lawmakers, stating, “THE TRAITORS THAT TOLD THE MILITARY TO DISOBEY MY ORDERS SHOULD BE IN JAIL RIGHT NOW.”

Following Trump’s remarks, the Pentagon announced on November 24, 2023, that it is investigating allegations of misconduct against Kelly, a retired captain in the U.S. Navy who completed 39 combat missions during Operation Desert Storm. The investigation is said to be in accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which governs military conduct.

In an official statement, Pentagon officials noted, “The Department of War has received serious allegations of misconduct against Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.). In accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, 10 U.S.C. § 688, and other applicable regulations, a thorough review of these allegations has been initiated.” They emphasized that the investigation will ensure due process and impartiality.

As the controversy unfolds, Kelly has taken to social media to defend his position. He referenced his military service and commitment to the Constitution, saying, “When I was 22 years old, I commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy and swore an oath to the Constitution. I upheld that oath through flight school, multiple deployments on the USS Midway, 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm, test pilot school, four space missions, and beyond.”

Supporters of Kelly and the other lawmakers involved in the video argue that their message is consistent with the UCMJ, which explicitly requires military personnel to disobey illegal orders. Eric Carpenter, a law professor at Florida International University, highlighted that “sedition is trying to overthrow the government with force or violence.” He stated that the lawmakers’ intentions were simply to encourage service members to adhere to lawful directives.

Despite the backlash, Kelly remains resolute. He stated via X, “If this is meant to intimidate me and other members of Congress from doing our jobs and holding this administration accountable, it won’t work. I’ve given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.”

As the investigation by the Pentagon continues, the implications of this political clash are likely to resonate within both military and political spheres. The outcome may set a precedent regarding the balance of power and the responsibilities of elected officials in relation to the armed forces.